Back to School, Back to Bed
The impact of sleep on communication
Sleep and articulation
Some children can benefit from additional practice to produce specific sounds needed in speech, and sleep plays a necessary role in the learning and development of speech sounds. A well-rested child is better able to articulate words and phrases clearly, which is essential for effective communication.1Sleep and language skills
Does your child struggle to make complex sentences or include new vocabulary in their language? Studies show sleep benefits a child’s language processing skills, including learning new words and creating more complex sentences. Sleep also boosts the brain's ability to make connections between new words and concepts.2Sleep and social communication
A tired child may struggle to express themselves, become withdrawn, or engage less in communication. In fact, young children who sleep longer tend to initiate positive peer interactions more frequently and understand and regulate their emotions better.3 Sleep continues to be an important factor as children grow older, improving their social communication as well.4
So, what helps?
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Make a routine | Consistency is key. Doing the same things each night before bed prepares your child for sleep. Try reading a bedtime story, singing favourite songs, stretching, or reflecting on good things from the day. |
| Screens off before bed | Avoiding screens at least one hour before bedtime is a good idea as blue light can prevent kids from feeling sleepy. Perhaps set a timer, where all devices are put aside for the night, or swap your device out for a book or some music. |
| Set a bedtime | Keeping the time your kids go to bed consistent helps them set their body clocks. Try sticking to a regular bedtime, even on weekends. |
| Reduce light | As bedtime approaches, turn off bright lights and opt for softer lights like lamps, to help your child’s brain to wind-down for bed. |
For more tips, visit sleepfoundation.org
1Waford, Rachel & Pratt, N. & Warren, C. & Millis, B. & Molfese, Dennis. (2007). Effects of sleep restriction on speech discrimination in children. A21-A22.
2Gruber, R., Somerville, G., Enros, P., Paquin, S., Kestler, M. and Gillies-Poitras, E.. 2014. Sleep efficiency (but not sleep duration) of healthy school-age children is associated with grades in math and languages. Sleep Medicine.
3Vaughn B. E., Elmore-Staton L., Shin N., El-Sheikh M. (2015). Sleep as a support for social competence, peer relations, and cognitive functioning in preschool children. Behav. Sleep Med. 13, 92–106.
4Foley, J. E., & Weinraub, M. (2017). Sleep, Affect, and Social Competence from Preschool to Preadolescence: Distinct Pathways to Emotional and Social Adjustment for Boys and for Girls. Frontiers in psychology, 8, 711.
